Have you ever embarked on a journey that seemed daunting, only to find unexpected encouragement along the way? In Luke 2:21-38, we witness Mary and Joseph’s challenging journey as they navigate the early days of Jesus’ life, encountering both trials and divine encouragement at every turn.

Reconnect: As we delve into Luke 2:21-38, let’s remember the journey of Mary and Joseph, from the hardships of travel to Bethlehem to the moments of divine intervention and encouragement they experienced along the way.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 2:21-38

Jesus Presented at the Temple

     21And when eight days had passed, before His circumcision, His name was then called Jesus, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.

      22And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23(as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “EVERY firstborn MALE THAT OPENS THE WOMB SHALL BE CALLED HOLY TO THE LORD”), 24and to offer a sacrifice according to what was said in the Law of the Lord, “A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS.”

      25And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law, 28then he took Him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

      29“Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace,
According to Your word;

      30For my eyes have seen Your salvation,

      31Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,

      32A LIGHT OF REVELATION TO THE GENTILES,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”

      33And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. 34And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

      36And there was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years and had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers. 38At that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Summary Key Points:

1. Embracing God’s Call Amid Challenges: Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem was marked by hardship, yet they remained obedient to God’s call, trusting in His provision and guidance.
2. Divine Encouragement in Times of Need: Throughout their journey and beyond, God provided abundant encouragement to Mary and Joseph, sending angels, Elizabeth, shepherds, and now Simeon and Anna to affirm the significance of Jesus’ birth and mission.
3. Simeon’s Prophetic Confirmation: Simeon, a righteous and devout man, is moved by the Spirit to recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. His words of prophecy affirm Jesus’ identity as the long-awaited Messiah.
4. Anna’s Testimony of Redemption: Anna, a prophetess, joins Simeon in praising God and proclaiming Jesus’ significance to all who awaited the redemption of Jerusalem. Her testimony underscores the profound impact of Jesus’ birth on the lives of those who longed for God’s deliverance.

Call to Action:

1. Embrace God’s Call, Despite Challenges: Like Mary and Joseph, let us trust in God’s guidance and provision, even when the journey ahead seems difficult. May we find strength in His promises and remain obedient to His calling in our lives.
2. Seek Divine Encouragement: In times of trial and uncertainty, let us turn to God for encouragement, knowing that He provides abundantly for those who trust in Him. May we be open to receiving encouragement from unexpected sources, recognizing God’s hand at work in our lives.
3. Proclaim Jesus’ Redemption: Just as Simeon and Anna testified to the significance of Jesus’ birth, let us boldly proclaim His redemptive work to those around us. May our words and actions reflect the hope and salvation found in Christ alone.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your abundant encouragement and provision in our lives. As we journey through life’s challenges, help us to trust in Your guidance and remain faithful to Your calling. May we be open to receiving Your encouragement and boldly proclaim the redemption found in Jesus Christ. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

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